I personally think that the challenge is to find a balance - a middle ground between all of these choices - however, if I had to choose one, it would be preservation.  Without original sites, objects, and art,  education and exhibitions would be a rather hollow experience.  Just imagine how altered the experience of some of our National Parks would be for future generations if all of the natural resources and wildlife were stripped away...


Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Associate Conservator,
Metals & Arms
The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
P.O. Box 1776
Williamsburg, Virginia  23187-1776  USA
Voice:    757-220-7039
E-Mail:   [log in to unmask]

-----Original Message-----
From:   Museum discussion list  On Behalf Of K. Brecheisen
Sent:   Wednesday, April 08, 1998 11:57 AM
To:     [log in to unmask]
Subject:        goals of the museum

   I was wondering what everyone thought was the single most important
goal of museums: to educate, to preserve objects, or to have great
displays? This is something I've been wondering about in regards to
allocation of funds, education versus potential object damage, and the
like. Everyone, please respond!
Thanks,
Kathy